Unthinkable World Test Championship scenario explained as surprise switch revealed

On the eve of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa, both teams trained under overcast skies at Lord’s on Tuesday. Although the weather began to clear later in the day, gloomy skies are no surprise in a London summer — especially to those familiar with past Ashes series played in the UK.

Australia is unlikely to mind the rain, given how it helped them retain the Ashes in 2023, much to the dismay of local fans. However, the WTC Final is a standalone match concluding a two-year cycle involving all Test-playing nations, and the ICC is eager to crown a clear winner. An extra day has been scheduled as a backup, though it does not guarantee 90 additional overs.

The WTC involves nine Test nations, and the top two teams, Australia and South Africa, have reached the final. Australia qualified after a strong home series against India, with Steve Smith regaining form and their bowlers performing consistently. In the 2023 final, Smith and Travis Head led Australia to a dominant 209-run victory over India, and the Aussies will be hoping for a similar outcome this time.

South Africa's journey to the final is notable. Despite sending a weakened squad to New Zealand early in 2024 due to a scheduling clash with their domestic T20 league, they won their last seven Tests and topped the table. Although questions have been raised about their not playing Australia or England during the cycle, coach Shukri Conrad dismissed the criticism, saying, “We’re here now and that’s all that matters.”

The final will be played with the Dukes ball, common in England, Ireland, and the West Indies — a change for both teams who usually use the Kookaburra. This adds a layer of uncertainty, acknowledged by both captains, Pat Cummins and Temba Bavuma, as it will require quick adaptation.

Prize money for the 2025 WTC Final has significantly increased. The winners will receive $5.5 million (up from A$2.45 million), while the runners-up will earn $3.2 million (up from $1.25 million). The ICC says this reflects a renewed commitment to prioritizing Test cricket.

Bavuma expressed hope that South Africa’s appearance in the final will inspire young cricketers to pursue red ball cricket, reinforcing the importance and prestige of the longest format of the game.